French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich, comforting flavors of this French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup, featuring tender short ribs slow-cooked to perfection in a savory onion broth.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-11T21:35:14.546Z

This hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings and gatherings, bringing the warmth of French cuisine to your dining table.

A Symphony of Flavors

The magic of the French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup lies in the harmonious blend of flavors. The slow-cooked short ribs impart a deep, rich taste, while the caramelized onions add a subtle sweetness that elevates the dish. As these elements meld together in the savory broth, each spoonful offers a complexity that comforts the soul. Paired with the robust notes of white wine, every bite is a reminder of the warmth and tradition of French cuisine.

In this soup, a simple mix of quality ingredients truly shines. The slow cooking method ensures that the beef ribs become fork-tender, absorbing all the flavors from the broth. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience that warms the heart and satisfies the appetite. Serve it on a chilly evening, and you'll find that this soup not only nourishes but also envelops you in a cozy embrace.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a casual family dinner or a special gathering, French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup can adapt to any setting. Its elegance combined with comforting elements makes it great for entertaining guests. Top it with toasted French bread and melted Gruyere and Parmesan cheese for an impressive presentation that is sure to earn compliments.

Moreover, this dish embodies the spirit of warmth and hospitality. Preparing it for friends or loved ones is a heartfelt way to share comfort and care. It's the kind of meal that invites conversation and brings people together, making it perfect for gatherings during holidays or chilly weekends.

Tips for Best Results

To ensure your French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup turns out perfect every time, start with high-quality beef short ribs. Look for well-marbled cuts, as the fat will render down during cooking, enhancing the flavor of your broth. Also, don't rush the caramelization process of the onions; this step is crucial for developing depth in flavor. Low and slow is the key to achieving that golden brown hue and rich taste.

Lastly, when it comes to serving, consider using oven-safe bowls to create a beautiful cheese crust atop your soup. Broiling the cheese just until bubbly and golden enhances the dish's texture and adds an irresistible finish that your guests will adore.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Soup

  • 2 lbs beef short ribs
  • 4 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup white wine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  • French bread, sliced
  • Gruyere cheese, grated
  • Parmesan cheese, grated

Adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.

Instructions

Instructions

Brown the Short Ribs

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then brown them on all sides. Remove the ribs and set aside.

Cook the Onions

Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook over medium heat until they are soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Return the short ribs to the pot, add the broth, white wine, thyme, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 2 hours, or until the ribs are tender.

Assemble to Serve

Preheat the broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with sliced bread and a generous amount of Gruyere and Parmesan cheese. Broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Pairing French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup with a simple side salad can complement the hearty nature of the dish. A light arugula or mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. You might also consider some pickles or a mild coleslaw to add a crunch that balances the meal beautifully.

For beverages, a glass of robust red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs wonderfully with this flavorful soup. These wines enhance the taste experience and complement the savory broth, creating a delightful dining experience. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a rich, full-bodied apple cider.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly is essential to maintain flavor and texture. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup; it can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy again, reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If the broth has thickened during storage, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Just like before, don’t forget to broil it with cheese for that delightful topping!

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance and reheat before serving.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use additional beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar.

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Savor the rich, comforting flavors of this French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup, featuring tender short ribs slow-cooked to perfection in a savory onion broth.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration2 hours
Overall Time2 hours 20 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Soup

  1. 2 lbs beef short ribs
  2. 4 large onions, thinly sliced
  3. 4 cups beef broth
  4. 1 cup white wine
  5. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  6. 1 teaspoon thyme
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  1. French bread, sliced
  2. Gruyere cheese, grated
  3. Parmesan cheese, grated

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then brown them on all sides. Remove the ribs and set aside.

Step 02

Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook over medium heat until they are soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes.

Step 03

Return the short ribs to the pot, add the broth, white wine, thyme, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 2 hours, or until the ribs are tender.

Step 04

Preheat the broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with sliced bread and a generous amount of Gruyere and Parmesan cheese. Broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 500
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbs: 25g
  • Fat: 35g